Pubs across Wales are closing at a rate of two a week, according to figures released by trade body the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA).
The BBPA’s ‘I’m backing the pub’ campaign was launched to promote pubs as an essential part of community life and to mobilise public support to try and save them.
Caerphilly Plaid Cymru candidate Lindsay Whittle is backing the campaign aimed at saving the Great British pub.
Cllr Whittle, who is also leader of Caerphilly County Borough Council, said: “Pubs are a vital part of the local community here in Caerphilly.
“As well as promoting responsible drinking they also provide employment for many local people. So I am delighted to support the ‘I’m Backing the Pub’ campaign.
“The closure figures shows that more action needs to be taken to support this essential British institution.”
The figures from the BBPA show that the number of pubs in Wales, England and Scotland fell by 1,013 between June and December 2009 with 1,566 closing and just 553 opening for business.
In Wales 24 new pubs opened their doors but this was countered by 81 closing for good.